Del Rio’s Hike to Fight Story

One week before the first annual Hike to Fight, the event became even more personal for the Del Rio team. Sarah Mellema, Wine Club and Shipping Coordinator at Del Rio, was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Grateful for Hope | Del Rio Vineyard

When Jenny Richmond moved from Seattle to the Rogue Valley in 2011 with her husband and three children, she had plenty of experience organizing and participating in walkathons, bake sales, and fundraisers benefitting important causes. So, when she began working with Del Rio Vineyards as their Wine Club, Compliance, and Inventory Manager in 2018, she wanted to carry on her commitment to raising funds and awareness for good causes. When she witnessed her dear friend Jill battling breast cancer, ultimately losing her fight in August 2023, she wanted to do something more.

Every October since 2010, Del Rio’s holds their Drink Pink campaign, where a portion of proceeds from sales of Jolee Rose benefit the Asante Mammogram Fund, but Jenny knew there was more they could do. In 2023 Del Rio launched their annual Hike to Fight to raise even more awareness and funds, and most importantly, create a sense of community and support for those affected by breast cancer. She experienced her friend’s battle firsthand and recognized how life-changing a network of support can be for those who are going through or have survived cancer, and for families who walk alongside them.

One week before the first annual Hike to Fight, the event became even more personal for the Del Rio team. Sarah Mellema, Wine Club and Shipping Coordinator at Del Rio, was diagnosed with breast cancer. This diagnosis was absolutely devastating, as they had all felt the impact of Jill’s journey with the same disease. But because of Jill, Sarah was inspired to fight even harder, and through the support of her family, friends and co-workers, she faced her diagnosis with faith, courage and hope.

Sarah also credits her positive outlook to Asante’s incredible cancer care staff and services. After being diagnosed, Sarah was able to schedule her surgery consultation with a local physician, and received all her care, from chemotherapy to radiation, at Asante’s Mary & Dick Heimann Cancer Center in Medford. Being close to home made all the difference, and because of the quality of treatment and support, she continues to live life to the fullest and inspire those around her.

As a locally owned and governed non-profit health system, Asante relies on the community’s generosity to sustain and advance essential programs and services that matter most. Fundraisers like Del Rio’s Drink Pink and Hike to Fight make it possible for thousands of people from all over Southern Oregon and Northern California to receive high quality, local cancer care each year. Their team is honored to give what they can in support of a cause very dear to all their hearts – for their employees, customers and loved ones, they look forward to inspiring hope for years to come.

Del Rio staff at Hike to Fight
Sarah from Del Rio during her chemo treatments

​“My care team at Asante was amazing!

They were patient, they were gentle, and they explained everything in detail. Now, I feel comfortable and confident – I know they will get me through this.”

-Sarah, Del Rio staff member and breast cancer survivor

“There is incredible power in doing good. The golden rule should be more than a rule – it should be a purpose.”

—Gene Pelham, Rogue Credit Union